Your computer will run reliably if there is sufficient free space on its hard drive. Windows and applications need space to store temporary files, install updates and run smoothly. If you’re running low on disk space, your computer will slow down, applications may freeze, and you may be unable to install updates or new programs.
- Windows generally performs best when there is more than 30 gigabytes of free space.
- If your operating system drive is nearly full, delete any unnecessary files or programs, or move large files to another storage location.
- If more than one person uses the same computer, each user must clear out their own files, such as those in their own user profile or the LocalData folder.
- If you are unsure what you can safely delete, please contact IT Helpdesk.
Quick help
Hard drive running out of space
When your computer’s hard drive is almost full, you will receive a notification Drive C: is running low. The notification states how much space is left on your computer and recommends that you free up space on the hard drive.
Check the free space on your hard drive
You can check how much space is left on the hard drive containing the operating system. The operating system drive is usually the C:\ drive.
1. Open File Explorer from the Start menu
2. Select This PC
3. Look under Devices and drives and find Local Disk (C:).
4. Used and free space are displayed below the drive icon.
5. For more detailed information, right-click the drive and select Properties.
Ways to free up space on your hard drive
Uninstall unnecessary applications
You can uninstall unnecessary applications via Software Center:
1. Open Software Center from the University Menu or the Start menu.
2. Go to Applications.
3. Select the application you wish to remove.
4. Click Uninstall.
5. Wait for the uninstallation to complete before starting the next one.
Read more about the Software Center in the separate instructions.
Notes
- Some applications are required by the IT Centre and cannot be uninstalled by the user.
- If the application does not appear in the Software Center or you are unable to uninstall it from there, please contact IT Helpdesk.
Delete unnecessary files
It is good practice to delete files you no longer need. The Downloads folder often contains the largest files.
1. Open the Downloads folder, for example via File Explorer.
2. Sort the files by size or modification date.
3. Delete or move old files, such as Word, Excel and PDF files, ZIP archives, installation files, and large video or audio files.
Notes
- Also check other folders, such as Documents, Pictures, Music and Videos.
- When you’re finished, remember to empty the Recycle Bin. Right-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop and select Empty Recycle Bin.
Delete unnecessary files from the LocalData folder
If you have been using the LocalData folder to store temporary files, check whether there are any unnecessary files there.
1. Open This Computer (File Explorer).
2. Navigate to Local Disk (C:) → LocalData → your username. (e.g. C:/LocalData/rkeskiva)
3. Delete any files and folders you no longer need.
Notes
- Files in the LocalData folder are not backed up to network drives, so we do not recommend storing anything important there long-term.
- When you’re finished, empty the Recycle Bin. Right-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop and select Empty Recycle Bin.
Detailed help
Video instruction
Give feedback
The instructions site of the University of Helsinki's IT Helpdesk helps you with IT-related issues related to your work. Let us know how we can improve our instructions. We greatly appreciate your feedback!
How would you improve these instructions?